192140 - Implanon training

Location: Online

This session will provide education on long acting reversible contraception (LARC) in general, as well as detailed information on optimal counselling for women considering the etonogestrel implant (Implanon). The practical procedures of Implanon insertion and removal will be taught, and participants will be given the opportunity to demonstrate competence in these skills.

Relevance to General Practice

The vast majority of contraception discussions take place in primary care. Australia continues to have one of the highest abortion rates among developed countries, underlying the importance of providing effective contraception information. The Choice project in the USA, among others, has established the superior efficacy and continuation rates of LARCs compared with other forms of contraception. Globally, increased use of LARCs is accepted as a strategy to decrease rates of unintended pregnancy. Despite this, Australia continues to have low uptake rates of these methods compared to other developed countries. FPAA (Family Planning Alliance Australia) issued a LARC position statement in 2014, stressing the importance of complete and accurate contraception information provision, and increased access to LARC methods, particularly implants and IUDs.

Learning outcomes

Explain the pros and cons of LARCs compared with other contraceptive methods

Outline the important components of Implanon counselling prior to insertion.

Demonstrate competent insertion of Implanon NXT

Define the important steps in the procedure for removal of Implanon NXT